Walk the Route of the Salt Path along the South West Coast Path
We may be biased but we’ve always thought the North Devon Coastline has cinematic appeal. The breathtakingly beautiful coastline deserves to be on the big screen. And luckily, we’re not the only people to think this. On Friday 30th May 2025, The Salt Path will be released in UK cinemas. The movie recounts the true story of author Raynor Winn and her husband Moth who embark on a 630-mile trek along the South West Coast Path (SWCP), starting from Minehead in Somerset through Devon and Cornwall and on to Dorset, finishing at Poole Harbour.
The South West Coast Path Features in The Salt Path Movie
The bestselling memoir was published in 2018 and now marks the moviemaking debut of four-time Tony Award–winning theatre director Marianne Elliott. The movie tells the story of how Raynor, played by Gillian Anderson, and Moth, played by Jason Isaacs, lose their home and livelihood after a legal battle over a bad business deal. Moth then receives a terminal diagnosis of a rare and incurable form of dementia. Homeless, practically penniless, and fuelled by a desire to find solace in nature, they gather up some basic supplies and head to the SWCP where an epic trek begins.
The South West Coast Path plays a starring role in the film and demonstrates exactly why it is so attractive to hikers and walkers looking to reconnect with the natural world. The dramatic cliffs, panoramic sea views, pretty ports, secluded coves and historic market towns that line England’s southwest peninsula make it a popular destination for over 9 million outdoor adventurers from around the world who appreciate the stunning scenery every year.
How Long is the South West Coast Path?
Last year, the South West Coast Path was named ‘the world’s happiest walk’ and at 630 miles long, it is the longest of the 20 National Trails in England and Wales. Walking the entire path is an unforgettable and challenging journey, equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 4 times. However, it can also be walked in smaller sections and accessed from many points along the route.
Raynor Winn is an Ambassador of the South West Coast Path Association, the charity that cares for, champions, and connects people to the SWCP. She said: “I’m so looking forward to people seeing the film adaptation of our story. The SWCP is more than just a path, it’s a transformative landscape, both challenging and healing, and available to all of us. I’m incredibly proud to be an ambassador for the charity, helping raise awareness of the support needed for the Path to remain open and accessible for everyone to enjoy.”
Benefits of Walking the South West Coast Path
The movie will undoubtedly attract walkers inspired by the story of Raynor and Moth, and who are looking to trace the route they see on screen. The Salt Path will also shine a light on the transformative power of walking.
It’s no secret that spending time outdoors in nature is great for our physical and mental health. It helps to reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, improve heart health and boost mood. And just as Raynor and Moth showed in the movie, walking is free and therefore the most accessible physical activity, as it requires no special training or equipment.
The North Devon stretch of the SWCP weaves its way for over 90 miles from Combe Martin to Marsland, offering a spectacular journey through ever-changing landscapes. It follows the old railway line along the Taw Estuary, crosses the river at the historic port town of Bideford, and continues past the characterful fishing village of Appledore. As the path approaches its western edge, it reaches the dramatic headland of Hartland Point—one of the most striking coastal features along the entire trail.
South West Coast Path Association Recommendations
If you plan to follow in Raynor and Moth’s footsteps and walk the 630-mile trek, The South West Coast Path Association, the organisation that maintains the SWCP, advises that a fast walker can complete the whole 630 miles in around 30 days. However, for those who prefer a more leisurely pace with time to stop to see some of the sights, it is recommended to allow between 7 and 8 weeks. The Association produces The Official Guide to the South West Coast Path and recommends a 52 day itinerary to walk the entire trail. Although many walkers like to split the trek across multiple holidays.
Can You Cycle the South West Coast Path?
If a cycling adventure is more up your street, there are sections of the SWCP that can be enjoyed by bike, such as the section between Braunton and Bideford here in North Devon. There are also lots of other great cycling routes in North Devon that you could explore.
For those less keen on outdoor adventures but still want to take in the breathtaking scenery that the SWCP offers, a road trip along the Southwest 660 will provide an unforgettable experience. This driving tour takes you through Somerset, Devon, Cornwall and Dorset, allowing you to enjoy the spirit of freedom and adventure.
Accommodation Along the South West Coast Path
Whether you travel the southwest peninsula on foot, by bike or by car, you will undoubtedly need somewhere to stay. In The Salt Path, artistic licence allows Raynor and Moth to camp along The South West Coast Path, but there is actually no public right to do this. However, for those exploring the Path in North Devon, The Carlton, one of the best hotels in North Devon, serves as a comfortable and convenient stopover for weary travellers.
Book your stay at The Carlton today or get in touch to find out more about staying with us as you explore the South West Coast Path on eliot@ilfracombecarlton.co.uk.
If you have any questions, please call us on 01271 862446.
